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Tiling to replace Deck

scott_valla
Just Starting Out

Tiling to replace Deck

Hello team 
i added a deck a year ago and its warping and coming up all over the place. Screws breaking in half.. Im told wrong screws / timber not dried well etc.
Not happy with provider but thats life :cheeky:

It was done on steel joists ...

so I am thinking 
remove all hardwood (can use on other bench projects)
Lay concrete type substrate on Joists..??> https://www.jameshardie.com.au/productrange/hardie-secura-flooring
Water proof 
lay tiles 

Its not covered so I am asking whether its fine for a floor like this  to be fully outdoor with afternoon Sun/rain etc ?
appreciate any advice 
cheers

MitchellMc
Bunnings Team Member
Bunnings Team Member

Re: Tiling to replace Decl

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @scott_valla. It's sensational to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about replacing a deck.

With what you have described, yes, it is possible in principle. Hardie Secura Flooring is designed for external use and for tiled finishes, so exposure to rain and afternoon sun is not an issue when it is installed exactly as per the manufacturer’s system and properly waterproofed.

 

The important catch is that it is not a simple swap from decking boards to sheets. Secura Flooring relies on a purpose-built subfloor system with very specific joist spacing, fixing points, edge support and sheet layout. Deck frames are usually spaced much wider than what sheet flooring requires, and they are designed to support point loads from boards rather than continuous sheet loads and tiles. If the joist spacing is too wide, the sheets can flex, which will lead to cracked tiles or failed waterproofing over time.

 

Because your structure was originally designed as a deck on steel joists, the first thing you really need to do is compare your existing joist spacing and framing details against the Hardie Secura installation guide. In most cases, additional joists or noggins need to be added to bring the spacing down to suit sheet flooring and tiles. Edge support around the perimeter and at all sheet joins is also important.


Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

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Re: Tiling to replace Decl

cheers 
makes sense 
perhaps we can add noggins top/middle/bottom to conform to spacing needs

is the Secura product t the best product for this otherwise? I just found it on a quick search...

thanks for the TIP :smile:

Re: Tiling to replace Decl

Yes, some adjustments could be necessary @scott_valla. Secura is the compressed fibre cement used for exterior flooring applications.

 

Mitchell

 

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Re: Tiling to replace Decl

Last question @MitchellMc
am i able to "waterproof" myself ? eg paint it with some type of liquid?
I assume Secura needs that?

Re: Tiling to replace Decl

Waterproofing with a waterproofing membrane is required to protect the cement sheeting @scott_valla.

 

Mitchell

 

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